Last May, Lenovo updated its IdeaPad line-up with three new models. They are the IdeaPad 330, the IdeaPad 330S, and the IdeaPad 530S. All three devices promise powerful performance and top mobility without breaking the bank. The units also come in different variations based on their CPU and GPU.

Stores that sell laptop units would tell you that this IdeaPad line-up isn’t the most exciting—unless you have a restricted spending plan. If you have financial limitations, then the IdeaPad 330S is worth considering. Thanks to its relatively powerful settings and decent design, it’s a cost-effective laptop you can enjoy.

Hardware and Software

The IdeaPad 330S makes itself appealing to the eye thanks to its tasteful design. It is slim and has a polished aluminum lid. The 330S features an IPS display with a 1920×1080 resolution. One model is 14 inches, the other is 15.6.

Depending on the model, the 330S is powered by an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor or a Pentium Silver chip. You can get an additional GeForce GTX 1050 graphics chip, but at a cost.

The 330S offers single- and dual-storage options. For the single configuration SSD, your choices are between 128GB and 256GB. For the single hard drive, your options are 1TB and 2TB. In terms of the dual configuration, your option is a combination of a 128GB SSD and a 1TB hard drive.

For connectivity, this IdeaPad comes with two USB-A ports and a USB-C port. An audio jack is available as well. The IdeaPad 330S has a Bluetooth 4.1 connection. It also supports Wireless AC connectivity.

Keyboard and Touchpad

Lenovo often adopts the keyboard style and design of ThinkPad, its sister brand. Surprisingly, the keyboard of the IdeaPad 330S is completely different. It sports a backlit chiclet-style keyboard with three modes: off, low brightness, and high brightness. The keys are flat, but the travel is relatively deep.

The response level of the 330S keys is better than the tactile feedback you’d get from the 330 and the 530S. That said, when compared to other laptops in the same range, the response level is sub-par.

Also, because the keyboard doesn’t include some keys (Home, Page Up, Page Down, End), it can be a problem if you plan to use the 330S for writing and editing projects. You’ll need to tap combinations of the Function and arrow keys to access these functions.

For the touchpad, the 330S provides a precise add-on. Multi-finger gestures work well. You don’t need to use third-party drivers to get the job done. The touchpad is very responsive, and it registers taps very well.

Additional Components

The IdeaPad 330S has a 720p webcam with several microphones. Its 2-watt speakers are supported by the preinstalled Dolby Audio. In terms of battery life, the laptop promises up to seven hours of use on a single charge. The 330S models come in different colors: gray, pink, white, and blue.

For both the 14-inch and 15.6-inch models, the selling price starts at $499.